Application process

What is the age limit for the conference?
Men and women, ages 18-35 are invited to apply for the conference. Although there are some high school seniors who are 18, we recommend waiting one year before applying to the program. Medium age of the conference is usually between 23-25 years.

Who should write the reference letter?
The reference letters should be written by two mentors that are not related to you and who know of your involvement in the Catholic community and can speak to your desire for spiritual development. At least one of the mentors should have a professional ministry background (Vocation Director, Priest, Campus Minister, Volunteer Program Director, Spiritual Director, etc.)

Can I send the reference letters later than the application form?
You certainly can, but we will review your application only when we have received all the documents.

When will I hear back about my application?
The selection committee will start meeting in May. Notices of acceptance will be sent to you after the respective meeting. If you have any questions, please contact us at 773.371.5432 or catholicsoncall@ctu.edu.

How do I find a partner organization of Catholics on Call?
You can find a list of partner organizations here.

Travel

Which is the airport closest to CTU?
Midway Airport is the closest to CTU. O’Hare International is accessible as well; however, highway construction and traffic require a longer commute. Consult the trip planner for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) here.

Is parking available at CTU?
Free parking is available at CTU. If you are driving, please let us know, so parking can be arranged for you in our garage.

What items do I need to bring?
CTU will supply you with towels and bedding. You will want to bring comfortable clothes, toiletries (don’t forget the toothpaste and soap!), hair dryer, books for reading during your free time, and other items you just can’t leave home without! If you forget anything, there is a drug store within walking distance.

Conference

What kind of activities can I expect during the young adult conference?
The conference is designed to provide a pressure-free environment in which young adults will have the opportunity to explore their desires, dreams and concerns about pursuing a life of service in the Church. The conference consist of a blend of presentations, shared prayer, personal reflection and group discussion, interaction with outstanding pastoral ministers and theological reflection on that experience. There will also be opportunities for individual meetings with mentors as well as personal interaction with peers. Activities for exploring the great city of Chicago are planned too.

What is the cost of the conference?
We ask you to pay $100 registration fee to help cover the costs of the confernce. Please consider different fundraising possibilities that can help you cover the expenses (e.g. on Fundraiser Insight). If you are associated with a partnering organization, they may be able to help with travel costs. Please contact us for payment plans or scholarships.

What is the schedule of the conference?
The conference starts on Wednesday July 25 - arrival and check-in will be from 1 - 4 p.m. - and ends on Saturday, July 28 after lunch (1 p.m.)
It is possible to check-in into your room earlier. Please let us know if you are planning to arrive early.

Do I need to have experience in ministry to apply for Catholics on Call?
No! We are seeking in our conference participants active Catholics involved in university/college ministry or a parish community. We are looking for people who are open to exploring God’s call in their own lives, as well as learning about the vocational desires, dreams and concerns of a diverse group of people. This conference is not for those who have formally entered a process of formation for religious life, priesthood or ecclesial lay ministry, with the exception of a lay minister who is considering religious life or priesthood.

What will be the maximum number of conference participants?
We will accept 40-45 young adults for each conference. Numbers may vary.

What is the dress code for the conference?
Dress code for the conference is casual. Make sure to check the weather forecast, as Chicago can be very hot in August. The facilities are air-conditioned, it may be cool inside the building. CTU is near a walking path along Lake Michigan. Feel free to bring exercise clothes, running shoes, roller blades etc. to enjoy while you are here.

What kind of accomodation is available?
All participants will be housed at CTU’s residential building. Each participant will have his or her own room complete with a bathroom. If you require an ADA/handicapped accessible room, please let us know.